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Driving in France
Apart from the obvious 'drive on the right' ('serrez à droite' means keep to the right) rule, most rules and regulations are similar to those in the UK.
In france the speed limit in towns is generally 50 km/h, on national roads 90 km/h (80km/h when wet), on Dual Carriageways 110km/h (100km/h when wet) and on the Autoroute (motorway) 130 km/h (110km/h when wet).
The old rule of 'priority to the right' still applies if there is no road sign at the crossing. This means that you must give way to traffic arriving from the right hand side. This can be a dangerous trap for people. No matter what the excuse, if you collide with traffic arriving on the right hand side, where there was no road sign, it is your fault. This ' priority to the right' is also marked with a red triangle with a white background with a black lazy cross or a 'kiss'. If you see these signs you know that the next junction coming up on your right has priority, so take care.
If you see a yellow diamond this means the road you are on has priority, and these are usually on the bye-passes and main roads.
Always carry your driving licence, vehicle registration document (V5), and certificate of motor insurance. If your licence does not incorporate a photograph ensure you carry your passport to validate the licence. If the vehicle is not registered in your name, carry a letter from the registered owner giving you permission to drive.
On the spot fines are issued. So make sure you carry cash with you or a card (where the officer will take you to the nearest bank to draw out the money).And ensure an official receipt is issued by the officer collecting the fine.
Seat belts are compulsory for front and rear seat occupants, if fitted.
Headlamp converters are compulsory.
Dipped headlights must be used in poor daytime visibility
Here are some words or signs you might see:
Z.I. or Zone Industriel - Out-of-town shopping - you will often find Hypermarkets or Supermarkets here
Centre Commercial - Commercial area, as above
Parking gratuit - free parking
Parking payant - parking with charge
Stationnement interdit - no parking
Serrez à droite - keep to the right
Feu rouge - red light
Feu vert - green light
Chaussée déformée - uneven road
Déviation - diversion
Ralentissez - reduce speed
Rappel - remember or reminder
Cédez le passage - give way
éaux piétons - give way to pedestrians
Essence sans plomb - unleaded petrol
Tout droit - straight ahead
à gauche / droite - to the left / right
plage - beach.
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